Loni Marathon 2026 Concludes with Enthusiasm; Ashlesha Zolekar and Nilesh Yadav Win 21 km Category

Loni: The fourth edition of the Loni Marathon 2026, one of the largest sports initiatives in Pune Rural, was successfully held with great enthusiasm. The event was jointly organised by Punit Balan Group (Pune) and Maji Vidyarthi Vikas Prabodhini, and witnessed participation from more than 3,500 runners from across the country. The special participation of Pune’s Powerful Ultra Runners drew particular attention.

The marathon was proudly sponsored by Punit Balan Group (Pune) and Oxyrich. Races were conducted in 3 km, 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km categories for both men and women. All participants were provided with T-shirts and bib numbers, and every finisher was honoured with a medal.

To ensure the safety of runners, hydration points, advanced medical facilities with doctors, and route pilot services were arranged throughout the course. Participation by divyang (differently-abled) runners was especially commendable. Several runners from the Police Training Centres at Nanvij and Khandala also took part.

On this occasion, Additional Superintendent of Police and renowned ‘Iron Man’ Vishnu Tamhane, Special Officer from the Deputy Chief Minister’s Office Dr Amar Bhadange, Special Officer from the Sports Minister’s Office Sunil, and Iron Man Dr Sagar Gujarathi, who has completed marathons in Dubai and Italy, were present as chief guests and participants.

Nearly 350 volunteers and representatives worked tirelessly to ensure the successful execution of the event. Distinguished attendees included President’s Award winner Kisan Gaikwad, Udaysingh Walunj (President, Maji Vidyarthi Vikas Prabodhini), Dr Kailas Gaikwad (Joint Secretary, Revenue Department), Balasaheb Gaikwad (Treasurer), and members of Punit Balan Group including Chetan Lokhande, Santosh Padwal, Prakash Walunj, Pandurang Walunj, Navneet Sinlkar, and Pradeep Kochar.

Participants aged 7 to 72 years took part in the marathon. Lakshmibai Rambhau Gaikwad, Harishchandra Thorat, and Bhamabai Maruti Walunj were honoured with special awards. Prior to the race, Rutujа Ingale and her team conducted stretching and warm-up exercises for participants.

The event received strong support from the Loni Gram Panchayat and villagers, various social and cooperative organisations, and Pargaon Police Station, led by Police Inspector Netaji Gandhare and his team. The programme concluded with Oxyrich water and refreshments distributed to all participants. Overall race management was handled by Race Director Rajesh Walunj, while anchoring was conducted by Dr Avinash Walunj and Dr Mayur Lokhande.